Rutland's Great White Egrets

Rutland Water Nature Reserve - 3rd September 2016

Flicking through my RSPB Handbook of British Birds, one of my favourite sections is the 'rarities' at the end. As with any birder, it's good to know them just in case! One bird in this section has always been my favourite, the Great White Egret. A large, widespread bird but rarely seen in Britain. There's something about this large white heron with it's typical laboured flight that just fascinates me. Closely related to another favourite family of mine, the spoonbills, large water birds, albeit not the most graceful, are my guilty pleasure.

While fantasising in the Swarovski hide at Birdfair, I spotted my first Great White Egret. Sadly, we had to dash to the events marquee but I knew I'd have to pay Rutland another visit soon. 

The bottom right-hand corner (Great White and Little Egret) really shows how large these birds are! 

On a rather gloomy Saturday, I was soon cheered up as we walked into the Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre. The centre overlooks one of Rutland's many lagoons. Straight away I saw a Great White Egret in the distance, while one of Rutland's famous Ospreys soared overhead and swooped down to catch fish. What a way to start the day! Despite the rain we carried on exploring some of Rutland's 36 hides. Other sightings included: Gadwall (by the 100's!), Green Sandpiper, Hobby, Pochard, Shoveler, Little Grebe, Snipe, Kingfisher and (adding a mammal) Hares. Rutland also have a 'photographic hide' in a woodland area set up with feeders. It's one of the most beautiful spots for feeders I've seen, nesting in the woodland with a central pond and plenty of ground flora. Sadly the weather seemed to deter many of the woodland birds.

RSPB statistics state that 35 Great White Egrets winter in the UK. However, expansion of their range means that sightings are becoming increasingly common. Rutland Water is 'internationally famous' and a great place for any birder! Especially those favouring waders and wildfowl. We didn't manage to see all of the reserve, therefore, I obviously have no choice but to go again soon.